Removable modular dock system and methods of making and using the same

ABSTRACT

The invention is directed to a dock system that can be removably attached to fixed piers. Specifically, the system can include a series of deck sections and an optional railing that extend from a footing on the shore. The deck sections are releasably secured together by pins. The system can be installed on a series of fixed piers that are built and constructed in place to be permanent. Advantageously, the deck sections of the disclosed system can be added or removed from the fixed piers when desired by the user, such as prior to exposure to hurricanes and other severe weather conditions. Thus, the disclosed system includes modular deck sections and railing sections that can be assembled or disassembled as desired by a user.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Pat. ApplicationNo. 63/277,734, filed Nov. 10, 2021, the entire content of which isincorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The presently disclosed subject matter is generally directed to aremovable modular dock system, and to methods of making and using thedisclosed system.

BACKGROUND

Docks are commonly used to provide access to sailboats, power boats andjet skis, along with access to fish, swim, kayak, paddleboard, and othermarine activities. A wide variety of dock structures are known in theart. Most docks in coastal regions include permanently situated pilingsdriven into the ground to form piers, with decking and support membersrigidly attached to the piers incapable of adjustment once they are setin place. Docks in coastal areas commonly experience weather-relateddamage, such as damage to the decking, railing, piers, and gazebos fromexposure to hurricanes and other large storm systems. For example, whena hurricane hits a coastal region, the waves impact the dock and gazeboover and over putting huge forces on the decking and railing of the dockand gazebo. The constant repeated impact of the waves can destroy thedecking on the dock and gazebo, destroy the railing, pull the pier pilesout of the ground, and destroy the piers, as illustrated in FIG. 1 .This results in a huge financial lost to the owner, loss of use, andproduces debris that can significantly damage other property and bescattered throughout the coastal area causing a significant cleanupeffort and added cost. It would therefore be beneficial to provide adock system that can be disassembled in advance of weather conditions toprevent damage, loss of use and substantial cost. It would also bebeneficial if the dock system can be reassembled after the storm event,allowing for continued use. It would further be beneficial to provide amodular dock system that can be easily installed and removed by twopeople.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter is directedto a removable dock system. Specifically, the system comprises aplurality of deck sections, each deck section defined by a top surfacecomprising decking material, a bottom frame structure comprising a pairof side edges, a pair of end edges. The system also includes at leastone hinge attached to each end edge of each deck section. A first decksection is pivotable relative to an adjacent deck section, and each decksection is removable from the system. Each deck section is supported,when installed in the system, by a pier which is comprised of a pair ofpiling and the crib bracing between the piles of the pier.

In some embodiments, the system further includes one or more railingsconfigured to be attached to the deck frame or the pier pilings.

In some embodiments, each deck section is configured in a rectangular orsquare shape.

In some embodiments, each deck section is configured with a length,width, or both of about 1-10 feet.

In some embodiments, each deck section has a thickness of about 2-12inches.

In some embodiments, each deck section is constructed from wood,polymeric material, composite material, fiberglass, metal, orcombinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the hinge is a strap hinge defined by an elongatebase that curves upon itself to form an opening that cooperates with apin, and a pair of slots.

In some embodiments, the strap hinge has a first position for removal orinstallation of a deck section, and a second position for convenientdock use.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter is directedto a method of installing a dock system on a series of permanent piers.Specifically, the method comprises positioning a first deck section on afirst pier located closest to a shoreline or the start of the dock overmarsh areas. The first deck section is defined by a top surfacecomprising decking material, a bottom frame structure comprising a pairof side edges, a pair of end edges, optional stringers, optionalblocking, and at least one hinge attached to each end edge. The methodincludes removably securing the first deck section in place on the firstpier (e.g., located closest to a shoreline or the start of the dock overmarsh areas) such that the deck section bottom frame structure contactsa top surface of the pier. The method of securing the decking to thepier supports normal day to day use but is easily and quickly removableto release the section from the pier for removal (e.g., through the useof stainless steel zip ties). The method includes positioning a seconddeck section on the top surface of the first deck section in an invertedorientation, such that the second deck section top surface is adjacentto the first deck section top surface (e.g., above and parallel to thefirst deck section top surface). The method further includes insertingpins into the hinges of the first and second deck sections to pivotablyjoin the first and second deck sections. The method includes rotatingthe second deck section onto the adjacent pier such that the bottomsurface of the second deck section is positioned on top of a top edge ofthe adjacent pier. The method comprises removably securing the seconddeck section in place and repeating the process for additional decksections to create a dock of desired length.

In some embodiments, the method further comprises attaching one or morerailings to a frame edge of one or more deck sections or to the piles ofthe pier.

In the disclosed embodiments, the deck sections are removed from thedock by reversing the method steps.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter is directedto a method of installing a dock system on a series of permanent pierscomprised typically of two pilings with crib bracing between them.Specifically, the method comprises positioning a first deck section onthe first pier located closest to a shoreline or the start of the dockover marsh areas, wherein the first deck section is defined by a topsurface comprising decking material, a bottom frame structure comprisinga pair of side edges, a pair of end edges, stringers, blocking, and apair of hinges attached to each end edge The method includes removablysecuring the first deck section in place to the pier. The method furtherincludes positioning a second deck section on the second pier adjacentto the first pier either by hand or using a wench system. The methodcomprises removably securing the second deck section in place on thesecond pier and repeating the process for successive deck sections untila dock of desired length has been constructed.

In some embodiments, the method includes attaching one or more railingsto a frame edge of one or more deck sections or to the piles of eachpier.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter is directedto a removable dock kit. Particularly, the kit comprises a plurality ofdeck sections, each defined by a top surface comprising deckingmaterial, a bottom frame structure comprising a pair of side edges, apair of end edges, optional stringers, optional blocking. The kitfurther includes a plurality of strap hinges, each strap hinge definedby an elongate base that curves upon itself to form an opening thatcooperates with a pin, and a pair of slots. The kit includes mechanicalelements selected from screws, bolts, fasteners, or combinationsthereof.

In some embodiments, the kit includes a plurality of optional railings,each railing configured to be attached to a deck section or pierpilings.

In some embodiments, the presently disclosed subject matter is directedto a method of constructing a gazebo or fishing platform using themodular dock system. Specifically, the method comprises attaching cribbracing inside and outside connecting all the gazebo or fishing platformpiles into a structurally sound support for the deck sections similar tothe piers of the dock. The method includes positioning a deck section ona top surface of the crib bracing, each deck section defined by a topsurface comprising decking material, a bottom frame structure comprisinga pair of side edges, a pair of end edges, stringers, blocking, and apair of hinges attached to each end edge The method includes securingeach deck section to the bracing, wherein the top surface of the decksections forms the top surface of the gazebo or fishing platform. Insome embodiments, the method optionally includes attaching one or morerailings to a surface of one or more deck sections or to the piles ofthe gazebo or fishing platform structure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an image of a coastal dock damaged by a hurricane or otherstorm system.

FIG. 2 a is a side plan view of a modular dock system in accordance withsome embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 2 b is a fragmentary view of a dock system comprising railing inaccordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subjectmatter.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a series of piers in accordance withsome embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 4 a is a top plan view of a deck section in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 4 b is a side plan view of a deck section in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 4 c is a top plan view of a deck section in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 4 d is a side plan view of a deck section in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5 a is a side plan view of a hinged deck section in accordance withsome embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5 b is a side plan view of a hinged deck section in a foldedconfiguration in accordance with some embodiments of the presentlydisclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5 c is a side view of a strap hinge in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5 d is a top plan view of a strap hinge in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5 e is a top plan view of a double strap hinge in accordance withsome embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 5 f is a side view of a double strap hinge in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 6 a is a side plan view of a hinge strap in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 6 b is a top plan view of a hinge strap in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 7 a is a side plan view of a series of piers in accordance withsome embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 7 b is a side plan view of two initial deck sections positioned ona pier in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosedsubject matter.

FIG. 7 c is a side plan view of the rotation of one deck section to theuse configuration in accordance with some embodiments of the presentlydisclosed subject matter.

FIG. 8 a is a side plan view of a series of piers that can be used witha non-hinged system in accordance with some embodiments of the presentlydisclosed subject matter.

FIG. 8 b is a side plan view illustrating positioning of adjacent decksections on piers in accordance with some embodiments of the presentlydisclosed subject matter.

FIG. 9 a is a side plan view of a dock system comprising railing inaccordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subjectmatter.

FIG. 9 b is an end view of the dock system of FIG. 9 a .

FIG. 9 c is an end view of a dock system in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 10 a is a side plan view of a dock system comprising rigid railingsin accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subjectmatter.

FIG. 10 b is a side plan view of a dock system comprising rope railingsin accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosed subjectmatter.

FIG. 10 c is a side plan view of a dock system comprising pilingrailings in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosedsubject matter.

FIG. 11 a is a side plan view of a dock section frame in accordance withsome embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 11 b is a top plan view of a dock section frame in accordance withsome embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 12 a is a top view of a gazebo or fishing platform piling and cribbracing support structure for the decking system in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 12 b is a top view of the deck sections creating the top surface ofa gazebo or fishing platform in accordance with some embodiments of thepresently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 12 c is a cross section view of a gazebo constructed in accordancewith some embodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 13 a is a top view of a modular unit configured to sit inside ofpiles in accordance with some embodiments of the presently disclosedsubject matter.

FIG. 13 b is a top view of a modular unit comprising a frame inside aframe, configured to sit inside of piles in accordance with someembodiments of the presently disclosed subject matter.

FIG. 13 c is a front view of the modular unit of FIG. 13 b positionedadjacent to a pile in accordance with some embodiments of the presentlydisclosed subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The presently disclosed subject matter is introduced with sufficientdetails to provide an understanding of one or more particularembodiments of broader inventive subject matters. The descriptionsexpound upon and exemplify features of those embodiments withoutlimiting the inventive subject matters to the explicitly describedembodiments and features. Considerations in view of these descriptionswill likely give rise to additional and similar embodiments and featureswithout departing from the scope of the presently disclosed subjectmatter.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood to one of ordinary skill inthe art to which the presently disclosed subject matter pertains.Although any methods, devices, and materials similar or equivalent tothose described herein can be used in the practice or testing of thepresently disclosed subject matter, representative methods, devices, andmaterials are now described.

Following long-standing patent law convention, the terms “a”, “an”, and“the” refer to “one or more” when used in the subject specification,including the claims. Thus, for example, reference to “a device” caninclude a plurality of such devices, and so forth. It will be furtherunderstood that the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “includes,” and/or“including” when used herein specify the presence of stated features,integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do notpreclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groupsthereof.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities ofcomponents, conditions, and so forth used in the specification andclaims are to be understood as being modified in all instances by theterm “about”. Accordingly, unless indicated to the contrary, thenumerical parameters set forth in the instant specification and attachedclaims are approximations that can vary depending upon the desiredproperties sought to be obtained by the presently disclosed subjectmatter.

As used herein, the term “about”, when referring to a value or to anamount of mass, weight, time, volume, concentration, and/or percentagecan encompass variations of, in some embodiments +/-20%, in someembodiments +/-10%, in some embodiments +/-5%, in some embodiments+/-1%, in some embodiments +/-0.5%, and in some embodiments +/-0.1%,from the specified amount, as such variations are appropriate in thedisclosed packages and methods.

As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations ofone or more of the associated listed items.

Relative terms such as “below” or “above” or “upper” or “lower” or“horizontal” or “vertical” may be used herein to describe a relationshipof one element, layer, or region to another element, layer, or region asillustrated in the drawing figures. It will be understood that theseterms and those discussed above are intended to encompass differentorientations of the device in addition to the orientation depicted inthe drawing figures.

The embodiments set forth below represent the necessary information toenable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments andillustrate the best mode of practicing the embodiments. Upon reading thefollowing description in light of the accompanying drawing figures,those skilled in the art will understand the concepts of the disclosureand will recognize applications of these concepts not particularlyaddressed herein. It should be understood that these concepts andapplications fall within the scope of the disclosure and theaccompanying claims.

The presently disclosed subject matter is directed to a dock system thatcan be removably attached to fixed piers. Specifically, system 5 caninclude a series of deck sections 10 and optional railing 15 that extendfrom footing 6 on the shore, as shown in FIGS. 2 a and 2 b . The decksections are releasably secured together by pins 20. As illustrated, thesystem can be installed on a series of fixed piers 25 that are built andconstructed in place to be permanent. Each pier includes crib bracing 30attached to the piles of the piers. Advantageously, the deck sections ofthe disclosed system 5 can be added or removed from the fixed pilingswhen desired by the user, such as prior to exposure to hurricanes andother severe weather conditions. Thus, the disclosed system includesmodular deck sections 10 and railing sections 15 that can be assembledor disassembled as desired by a user.

As noted above, system 5 is installed on a plurality of permanent fixedpiers that are typically undamaged by hurricanes and other storms. Theterm “pier” refers to a raised vertical structure that rises above abody of water and typically juts out from the shore. The piers areconventionally constructed from one or more durable materials, such as(but not limited to) steel pipe, concrete, treated wood piles, woodplank and the like.

Piers 25 can be permanently affixed within the ground 26 beneath avolume of water using any suitable method, such as (but not limited to)driving, jetting, affixation with concrete, and/or other known methods.Thus, the piers are permanently attached to the ground and arestructurally sound, providing resistance to damage during hurricanes andother severe weather events.

As shown in FIG. 3 , each pier 25 has height 27 such that the pier’sdistal end 28 is above the water surface at the high-water mark and highenough to meet applicable building codes. The term “height” can refer tothe longest vertical length of a pier above the ground. Suitable heightscan be at least about (or no more than about) 5-50 feet in length (e.g.,at least/no more than about 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 feetor more). Adjacent piers can be constructed any distance 29 apart, suchas (but not limited to) at least/no more than about 4-20 feet apart(e.g., 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20).The span 23 (width) between two piles 24 of each pier is as required forthe decking section width, such as at least/no more than about 2-10 feetapart (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10 feet). In some embodiments,each pier 25 includes support crib bracing 30 attached to the piles ofthe pier. Each crib bracing can be attached to an inner surface, outersurface, or both inner and outer surface of the pilings. It should beappreciated that the piers can be spaced and configured to meetapplicable building codes.

System 5 also includes a series of removable deck sections 10 that aretypically constructed off-site and then removably installed on orbetween the distal end of the pilings of each pier. FIGS. 4 a and 4 billustrate one embodiment of deck section 10 comprising a series ofindividual decking materials 35 that make up the top surface of thesection, attached to lower support frame 36. The decking material can beattached to the support frame using any conventional method, such as theuse of nails, screws, bolts, fasteners, and the like. Although aplurality of spaced apart elongated decking materials as shown, anysuitable configuration can be used (e.g., a single portion of material).Further, support frame 36 can take any suitable form of deckingmaterials 35 to be attached thereto.

Each deck section includes upper first edge 40, opposed second side edge45, and end edges 50, as shown in FIG. 4 c . The side edges can be aboutparallel relative to each other. Similarly, the end edges can be aboutparallel to each other to form a square or rectangular shape. However,it should be appreciated that deck section 10 can be configured in anydesired shape. Each section also includes decking material 35 (e.g., thesurface that a user walks upon when the dock is in use) and an opposedlower surface of the frame 52 (positioned facing the water beneath thestructure).

Deck sections 10 can further include length 55, width 56, and thickness57, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 c and 4 d . The term “length” refers tothe longest horizontal length of the section, from one end edge 50 tothe other. The term “width” refers to the longest straight line verticaldistance of the segment, from first side edge 40 to second side edge 45.In some embodiments, the section length and/or width can be about 1-10feet (e.g., at least/no more than about 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 3.5, 4, 4.5,5, 5.5, 6, 6.5, 7, 7.5, 8, 8.5, 9, 9.5 or 10 feet). The term “thickness”refers to the longest distance between the section upper surface 35 andlower surface 52. In some embodiments, the thickness of section 10 canbe about 2-12 inches (e.g., at least/no more than about 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,7, 8, 9, 10, 11, or 12 inches). However, the deck section configurationsare not limited, and can be constructed with a length, width, and/orthickness outside the given ranges. In addition, other decking materialorientations are available.

Decking material 35 and support frame 36 can be constructed from anydesired material, such as (but not limited to) wood, polymeric material,composite material, fiberglass, metal, or combinations thereof. Becausethe sections may be exposed to salt water and air, the materials can beselected to be durable to resist deterioration (e.g., treated woodand/or stainless steel can be used). In some embodiments, the materialsused to construct deck sections 10 can be lightweight, weighing about75 - 150 pounds each to allow for ease of handling by two people.

As mentioned above, adjacent deck sections 10 can be attached to eachother using pins 20. The term “pin” refers to any of a wide variety ofattachable elements, including hinges. For example, pins 20 can includeone or more hinge straps 55 that allow a first deck section to berotatably moved relative to a second deck section, as shown in FIGS. 5 aand 5 b . Specifically, a first deck section can be releasably attachedto a pier, as discussed in detail below. Hinge straps 55 are secured toend edges 50 of each deck section. Pivot pin 20 extends through thehinges straps 55 allowing the deck sections to rotate about the pins.The axis of rotation of the hinge is at the top surface of an adjacentdeck section.

Thus, it should be appreciated that a critical part of the disclosedsystem and method is the rotation of deck sections to either install orremove the dock. The disclosed mechanism includes aninstallation/removal position that will allow each deck section to reston top of another deck section while pinned together or being pinnedtogether, as shown in FIG. 5 b . Beneficially, such an arrangementallows the deck sections to be added or removed from the dock. Thedisclosed system further includes an operating (e.g., use) positionwhere the connection items are positioned below the top surface of thedeck section 35 to eliminate tripping and to provide for a cleanconsistent deck section top surface. The system and noted rotation canbe accomplished through any suitable mechanism, such as (but not limitedto) a dual slotted strap hinge, a single slotted hinge, an interlockinghinge, or several other similar devices. The term “strap hinge” broadlyrefers to a hinge with two pieces connected by rotating axis 38 betweenthe two pieces, allowing the strap hinge to open and close once attachedto a surface. One embodiment of a strap hinge is shown in FIGS. 5 c and5 d . A single slotted strap hinge includes a single aperture 37 on eachpiece, allowing it to be attached to a support surface. A double slottedstrap hinge includes two apertures on each piece as shown in FIGS. 5 eand 5 f . The hinge can include any length (e.g., about 3-10 inches) andany width (about 1-5 inches). The rotating axis can further beconfigured in any suitable size, such as with an internal diameter ofabout ½ inch and an outer diameter of about ⅞ inch, although anydiameters can be used.

The double slotted hinge of FIGS. 5 e and 5 f includes plate 39(constructed from, e.g., ¼ inch aluminum, although any suitable materialcan be used). The plate can include length of about 2 ⅜ inches and awidth of about 2 ¾ inches, although the plate can be configured in anysuitable size. Rotating axis 38 is welded or otherwise attached to theplate using any conventional mechanism. The rotating axis can includeany diameter, such as an inner diameter of about ½ inch and an outerdiameter of about ⅞ inch. Each aperture 37 can have a length of about3.4 inch and a width of about 7/16 inch, although it should beappreciated that the aperture can have any desired length, width, andshape.

An interlocking hinge includes first and second hinge members thatinterlock in a separable engagement via connecting rod.

One embodiment of a hinge strap is illustrated in FIGS. 6 a and 6 b . Asshown, the hinge strap includes base 56 with one end that curves overitself to form opening 57, which can be any suitable size (e.g., about0.1-1 inches in diameter in some embodiments). In some embodiments, twostrap hinges can be positioned at each end of a deck section. The hingefurther includes a series of slots 58 sized and shaped to accommodateone or more bolts (or any other type of fastening element). In use,hinge strap 55 is pulled up for removal or installation of a decksection, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 5 a . After the deck sectionhas been installed, the hinge is pushed down into slots 58, as shown inFIG. 5 b . Adjacent deck sections can therefore be pivotably joinedtogether through a hinge mechanism. The term “hinge” broadly refers toany connection in which one part is movable relative to another part.

To install a hinged deck section, piers 25 and crib bracing 30 arepermanently affixed in place, as illustrated in FIG. 7 a . First decksection 10a is positioned on a first pier 25a closest to the shorelineor the start of the dock over marsh areas, as shown in FIG. 7 b . Thefirst deck section can then be secured into place to crib brace 30,using any suitable mechanism (e.g., stainless steel zip ties, cleats,chain, etc.). The crib braces acts as a permanent support. Second decksection 10b is then positioned on the top surface of the first decksection in an inverted orientation. Pins are then inserted into hingestraps 55 to pivotably join the first and second deck sections. Seconddeck section 10b is then rotated into position and secured into placeover the adjacent pier 25, as shown in FIG. 7 c . The process isrepeated for successive deck sections until a desired length of dock hasbeen created. Optionally, railing can be attached after the decksections have been installed.

To remove the deck sections, the process is reversed. Specifically, thelast deck section is freed from any securing elements (e.g., zip tiescleats, chains, etc.) and then is rotated onto the top surface of theadjacent deck section such that the top faces of the two sections areadjacent to each other (as illustrated in FIG. 7 b ). The hinge strappins can then be removed, allowing the last deck section to be removedand transported onto the shore for storage. The process is repeated forsuccessive sections until all of the deck sections have been removedfrom the piers.

In some embodiments, the system can be configured without a hinge and/orrotation of the dock sections. However, specialized equipment to movethe dock sections in the horizontal position are required. In thisconfiguration, piers 25 with crib braces 30 are permanently affixed inplace, as illustrated in FIG. 8 a . A first deck section 10a ispositioned on the first piling and secured in place. The deck sectionscan be attached to the pier girders to secure them from lifting off thegirders. This attachment is a sacrificial attachment that can be easilyremoved when the dock needs to be removed from the water (typically doto approaching severe weather). The attachment of the deck section tothe girder can be accomplished by stainless steel zip ties, stainlesssteel cables, banding, and numerous other attachment devices, all withminimal cost and the ability to be quickly installed and removed.Typical removal is accomplished by simply cutting the attachment andremoving.

Cantilevered cart 60 can then be used to secure successive deck sectionsand secure each section in place. Specifically, the cart positions eachsection over the water and onto the next adjacent pier 25. The decksections 10 are simply pinned together using metal brackets (no straphinges are required). The process can be repeated for all deck sections10, as shown in FIG. 8 b . To remove the deck system in anticipation foran incoming storm, winter storage, and the like, the sections areremoved from the piers 25 and transported into shore using the cart 60.The process is repeated until all sections have been removed, leavingonly the piers 25.

Installation and Removal of the deck section can be accomplished byusing one of several different pieces of specialized equipment.Stanchion and Wench System, Cart-Wench System, Stanchion-Pulley-PillowSystem all specially designed to support the weight, size and rotationalinstallation/removal of the deck sections.

FIGS. 9 a and 9 b illustrate side and end views of decking sectionsinstalled on piers 25. As shown, fixed piers 25 each include crib braces30. Deck sections 10 are then installed on the piers and secured intoplace using strap hinges 55, stainless steel zip ties 59, and/or othermechanisms as described above. In some embodiments, the system caninclude positioning dock cleat 65 that includes multiple positioningoptions. Optionally, railing 15 can be affixed to the deck sectionsupport frame using any suitable mechanism 16, such as (but not limitedto) bolts, brackets, screws, and the like. Each railing can include oneor more apertures 17 that allow rope or other cordage 70 to be used. Itshould be appreciated that the design of railing 15 is not limited andcan include any railing that can be attached to a deck section. Thedecking resting on top of piers 25 need cleats to keep them from moving.The cleats act as stabilizers keeping the system in proper position.Thus, the decking is nested on piers or nested between the piles.

FIG. 9 c illustrates an embodiment wherein instead of resting on a topsurface of piers 25, deck sections 10 are supported by and rest uponcrib braces 30. An optional railing can be attached to sections 10 ifdesired. The positions of deck sections 10 are controlled by the piles24 of piers 25, strap hinge 21, zip ties 59 and/or cleats 65.

As set out above, system 5 can include optional railing 15, asillustrated in FIGS. 10 a-10 c . Specifically, FIG. 10 a depicts oneembodiment with solid removable railing supports 70 that can have anydimensions (e.g., 2 x 6). Metal brackets 31 can attach railings posts 15(e.g., 4 × 4 posts) to deck sections 10. Alternatively, railing supports70 can be constructed from rope 71, as shown in FIG. 10 b . In someembodiments, pier pilings 24 can be used as railing posts 15, as shownin FIG. 10 c . It should be appreciated that railing 15 is optional andthe disclosed system can be configured without a railing.

In some embodiments, system 5 can be provided as a modular kit that canbe purchased by a user. Specifically, a plurality of deck sections 10can be purchased to allow a user to construct a dock of any desired sizeand shape. Specifically, a plurality of sections 10 can be included inthe kit and installed onto a pair of adjacent piers until the requiredlength of dock is obtained. The deck sections can vary with respect tomaterials used, length, width, thickness, decking material and design,and the like, allowing the user to customize the dock. When used, straphinges 55 can also be included with the kit, along with the necessarymechanical elements (e.g., screws, bolts, and the like). In someembodiments, railings can also be included within the kit, along withthe corresponding attachment hardware, and instructions for use.

The disclosed system can be used as described above to create gazebosand fishing platforms. The deck sections simply need to be manufacturedto accommodate the desired size of the structure and the piles extendingup above the deck section top surface.

FIGS. 11 a and 11 b illustrate one embodiment of the disclosed deckingsystem including hinge straps 55, end edges 50, first side edge 40,second side edge 45, stringer 51 and blocking 52 are also shown.

FIG. 12 a illustrates one embodiment of a gazebo or fishing platformcrib bracing 80 that can be configured in any desired size (e.g., 12x12,14x14, 16x16, 18x18). The configuration can include roof support pilings81 and under decking support piles 82. As shown in FIG. 12 b , a seriesof removable deck sections 83 can be positioned and attached to the cribbracing using the methods described herein above. The deck sections 83for the gazebo and/or fishing platform are designed to accommodate theroof support piles as shown in FIG. 12 b . The deck sections 83, becauseof the configuration of the gazebo and/or fishing platform may have thehinge straps 55 on the side edges 40 or 45 or end edges 50 as needed tosupport removal around the piles 81. In this way, gazebo 85 can beconstructed, as shown in FIG. 12 c . The gazebo can include roof 90,crib bracing 30 and pilings 81, 82. Customized railing 95 can bepermanently or removably attached to the pilings (e.g., throughU-brackets for easy removal or similar attachment elements).

The presently disclosed subject matter also includes embodiments whereinthe configuration of the fishing platform or gazebo is such that themodular sections sit inside of the piles and are not required to nestaround the piles, as shown in FIGS. 13 a-13 c . This design can bereferred to as a “picture frame design.” The modular sections can beadded and removed as described in detail above. Further, removablerailings can optionally be added or removed as also discussed above.Beneficially, construction of the gazebo or fishing platform modules isuniform and simple. As shown in FIG. 13 a , bordered modular unit 110can include border 100 that extends around the perimeter of the section.The border can have any desired width, such as about 0.5-1.5 feet (e.g.,0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, or 1.5 feet). Themodular section includes individual smaller sections 105 which can beabout 6 feet x 4 feet in some embodiments. It should be appreciated thatany sized smaller sections can be used (e.g., with a length of about4-10 feet and width of about 2-8 feet). The entire modular section canhave a length of about 10-20 feet per side (e.g., at least/no more thanabout 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, or 20 feet).Advantageously, there are no pile cutouts in modular section 110.

As shown in FIG. 13 b , in some embodiments, the modular unit caninclude a border and no pile cutouts. Rather, border 100 extends aroundthe piles, as shown in FIG. 13 c . Inner frame 115 supports theindividual sections 105. The inner frame can have any desired thickness,such as about 1 inch. Spacers 120 can further be employed. This systemincludes a frame within a frame.

System 5 offers many advantages over prior art dock systems. Forexample, the disclosed system is less expensive than a traditional dockbecause of its modular design and “built-on-shore” capability.

System 5 can be quickly assembled or disassembled as desired by a user.

System 5 can be reused for many years since damage from hurricanes andother storm systems can be simply avoided by removing the decking and/orrailing in advance of the weather condition.

Further, maintenance of the deck and railing can be more easilyaccomplished by taking the materials to a repair facility versusrequiring on-site repair.

The disclosed system is modular, allowing a user to customize a dockwith respect to length, dimensions, and the like.

The decking system is modularized to all creation of lightweightsections and railing that is easy to install, allowing two people tofully construct the dock decking and railing.

One beneficial element of the disclosed system is the size and weight ofthe deck sections. The sections can be designed to assure that theweight and size are manageable by no more than two people. As a resultindividuals and/or installation or removal equipment can safely and easyhandle the deck section.

The disclosed system is modular and can be constructed with differentdimensions and materials for various locations and applications for use.

The dock system provides a durable, sleek, and strong system having anaesthetically pleasing appearance.

The system can be used seasonally and dismantled and stored on shoreduring the winter season (or during the hurricane season).

Exemplary embodiments of the methods and components of the presentlydisclosed subject matter have been described herein. As noted elsewhere,these embodiments have been described for illustrative purposes only,and are not limiting. Other embodiments are possible and are covered bythe presently disclosed subject matter. Such embodiments will beapparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) based on theteachings contained herein. Thus, the breadth and scope of the presentinvention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplaryembodiments but should be defined only in accordance with the followingclaims and their equivalents.

What is claimed is:
 1. A removable dock system comprising: a pluralityof deck sections, each deck section defined by a top surface comprisingdecking material, a bottom frame structure comprising a pair of sideedges, a pair of end edges, and one or more hinges attached to each endedge; wherein a first deck section is pivotable relative to an adjacentdeck section; and wherein each deck section is removable from thesystem; and wherein each deck section is supported by a pair of piersand a crib bracing when installed in the system.
 2. The system of claim1, further comprising one or more railings configured to be attached tothe support.
 3. The system of claim 1, wherein the hinge is a straphinge defined by an elongate base that curves upon itself to form anopening that cooperates with a pin and a pair of slots.
 4. The system ofclaim 3, wherein the strap hinge is defined by a first position forremoval or installation of a deck section, and a second position tosupport normal dock use.
 5. The system of claim 1, wherein each decksection is configured in a rectangular or square shape.
 6. The system ofclaim 1, wherein each deck section is configured with a length, width,or both of about 1-10 feet.
 7. The system of claim 1, wherein each decksection has a thickness of about 2-12 inches.
 8. The system of claim 1,wherein each deck section is constructed from wood, polymeric material,composite material, fiberglass, metal, or combinations thereof.
 9. Amethod of installing a dock system on a series of permanent piers, themethod comprising: positioning a first deck section of the system ofclaim 1 on a first pier located closest to a shoreline or the start ofthe dock over marsh areas; removably securing the first deck section inplace on the pier such that the deck section bottom frame structurecontacts a top surface of the pier; positioning a second deck section onthe top surface of the first deck section in an inverted orientation,such that the second deck section top surface is above and parallel tothe first deck section top surface; inserting a pin into the hinges ofthe first and second deck sections to pivotably join the first andsecond deck sections; rotating the second deck section onto an adjacentpier such that a bottom surface of the second deck section is positionedon a top of a crib bracing of the pier; removably securing the seconddeck section in place; repeating the process for additional decksections to create a dock of desired length.
 10. The method of claim 9,further comprising attaching one or more railings to a support frame ofone or more deck sections.
 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the hingeis a strap hinge defined by an elongate base that curves upon itself toform an opening that cooperates with a pin, and a pair of slots.
 12. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the strap hinge has a first position forremoval or installation of a deck section, and a second position tosupport normal dock usage.
 13. The method of claim 9, wherein the decksections are removed from the dock by reversing the steps.
 14. Aremovable dock kit, the kit comprising: a plurality of deck sections,each defined by a top surface comprising decking material, a bottomframe structure comprising a pair of side edges, a pair of end edges; aplurality of strap hinges, each strap hinge defined by an elongate basethat curves upon itself to form an opening that cooperates with a pin,and a pair of slots; a plurality of pins; and mechanical elementsselected from screws, bolts, fasteners, or combinations thereof.
 15. Thekit of claim 14, further comprising a plurality of optional railings,each railing configured to attach to a deck section or a piling.